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The NHL could be throwing open the doors to the playoffs in a shortened season.

While it hasn't been part of the discussions for a collective bargaining agreement, Nick Kypreos of Rogers Sportsnet reported late Tuesday the NHL and NHL Players' Association have had talks about allowing four more teams -- two each in the East and West -- into the post-season this spring.

That would increase the playoff pool to 20 teams and would offer the opportunity to create more fan interest in the post-season this year. The idea of having 66% of the teams make the playoffs doesn't sit well with some, but it's the most exciting time of the year.

"They have to look at ways to create more revenues because the damage from this lockout is going to be big," said a league executive speaking on the condition of anonymity Wednesday. "It's going to mean more races in the final weeks of the year. It's a positive."

Going on last season's standings, the Buffalo Sabres (89 points) and Tampa Bay Lightning (84) would have qualified in the East while the Calgary Flames (90) and Dallas Stars (89) would have come out of the West.

NHL looking at expanded playoffs in shortened season

The NHL could be throwing open the doors to the playoffs in a shortened season.

While it hasn't been part of the discussions for a collective bargaining agreement, Nick Kypreos of Rogers Sportsnet reported late Tuesday the NHL and NHL Players' Association have had talks about allowing four more teams -- two each in the East and West -- into the post-season this spring.

That would increase the playoff pool to 20 teams and would offer the opportunity to create more fan interest in the post-season this year. The idea of having 66% of the teams make the playoffs doesn't sit well with some, but it's the most exciting time of the year.